Good Luck, Folks

August 20, 1987

WELL, THE Orlando-Orange County Expressway Authority has shown its regard for Orlandoans. The first thing it did with the doubled toll money for the East-West Expressway was to close the exit at Chickasaw Trail in east Orlando, the only access from the north and east to Orlando General Hospital on Lake Underhill Drive.

What makes the situation more interesting was a telephone conversation with a representative of the authority: First, the closing is permanent and part of the construction of an overpass for the eastern leg. The eastern leg will not open until the 1990-1991 time frame. Interestingly, the overpass will take only a year to finish. ''Why not construct the overpass last -- start in 1989 or so?'' I asked. ''Because'' was the only reply.

Next, the Orange County highway department was called to ask if there had been any coordination for the increased traffic at the Goldenrod exit eastbound that already stacks up a mile or more. I was told that the only notice it received was a letter saying the exit was to be closed permanently. In the conversation, the distinct impression was gained that this was not the first unilateral action of the East-West Expressway Authority. I doubt it will be the last.

Meanwhile, for anyone on the north and east side who needs to get to Orlando General, I wish them luck.